The term “speech disability” is a very broad term, applying to numerous diseases and illnesses and involving numerous symptoms. From issues as simple as articulation or voice strength, to issues as severe as stuttering or stammering, speech disability manifests in a variety of ways. It is important to understand speech disability so that it may be properly treated and accommodated.

What is a Speech Disability?

A speech disability can manifest in a multitude of ways, and can stem from any number of issues, illnesses, and diseases. A disability such as this works to keep a person from being able to accurately articulate thoughts in a verbal fashion, from being able to speak clearly or concisely, or from being able to form full sentences without trouble.

Stuttering, stammering, lack of articulation or voice strength, are just some of the signs of speech disability. Here are some root issues that may lead to speech disability:

Speech disability is something that affects everyone. In Canada alone, hundreds of thousands of people struggle with various speech disabilities. Some have a speech disability so severe that they are markedly restricted from performing day-to-day tasks. If that is the case for you or someone you love, Canada’s disability tax credit can help. There are numerous treatments, accommodations, and therapies. So, while a speech disability may seem limiting and even overwhelming, there are always options.

Facts about Speech Disabilities

Although speech disabilities are not what one might consider rare, there are still a great many things to know about speech disabilities that most people don’t realize. These important facts can help you spot the symptoms and properly make decisions regarding how best to proceed. Here is a list of basic speech disability facts:

A Speech Disorder versus a Language Disorder—A speech disorder can be defined as when a person is unable to produce speech sounds correctly or has problems with his or her voice. Difficulties pronouncing sounds, articulation disorders, and stuttering are but a few examples of speech disorders.

A Language Disorder—When a person has trouble understanding others, sharing thoughts, ideas, or feelings completely or coherently, this may be the result of a language disorder.

Speech and Language Disorders are Often Comorbid—These speech disabilities are often comorbid with, or tied to, language disorders. Many speech disabilities are even little more than a symptom of a language disorder. Comorbidity is the presence of one or more disorders or diseases in addition to a primary disorder or disease.

Assistance and Treatment for Speech Disabilities

There are numerous options for assistance and treatment for speech disabilities. Several of these options allow for families, patients, and caregivers to ensure that those affected by speech disabilities are given the best care and assistance that they can receive.

The CASLPA—The Canadian Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists is the leading center for advances, treatment, and support for speech disabilities. They provide numerous options for children, patients, and family members affected by speech disabilities, and related symptoms and disorders.

Canadian Disability Tax Credit—Patients suffering from speech disability, learning disability, and/or the related symptoms, may qualify for Canadian disability tax credit. This disability tax credit can help cover extra expenses and ensure that these patients are able to live a full life and participate in society.

If you or a loved one suffers from a severe speech disability, please contact these organizations and get the help you need.